When I try to download my pictures this week, the computer tells me the camera is busy! It isn't. Have read other forum postings, have already tried other USB connection to no avail. Cant try another computer until tomorrow at college. Could it just be a new cable required or is it because I have updated my Windows XP? Any help that doesn't cost more money would be extremely helpful, as I have no extra funds until next month now! Thank you for your time to read my request .
Well, if would be helpful to know what kind of camera it is...
It sounds like you're connecting the camera directly to the computer, which usually always makes the process more complicated than it needs to be. If you needed to install software or drivers when you first set up the camera, uninstall then reinstall them. If you're camera was of the plug and play type, look on the manufacturers site for any firmware updates or downloads that may help.
I know you said you don't want to spend money, but if you can come up with 10 bucks (or maybe less) you can pick yourself up and external memory card reader. These make getting pictures from your camera to your PC much, much easier.
An external memory card is a small card that you can take in and out of your camera. Your camera has a compartment on the side of it that can be opened up and you can eject the smart card. This is where your pictures are stored. Your computer if it's new, might have a card reader built into it that you can put the card into to get your pictures. Alternatively, you can buy an external reader as Matt mentions. Something like this external reader. All you do is plug the reader into your computer, put in the smart card and your computer will automatically recognize it. You can then very easily copy your files off the card.
Thank you for your help, will investigate costs in uk for such a tool. My camera has a little 'memory card inside it whch is removable, I believe that is the card you mean? its just unfortunate at this time I dont even have 10p to spare this month, some pensioners in this country spend hours fighting for there just pension! and meanwhile exist on two thirds of what our government says we need to live on ,but do nothing significant about it! But I do appreciate your advice, and will invcest in one asap.an4paws.